Explain why atomic radius decreases across a period

As you go along a period, there is an increasing number of protons in the nucleus of each atom meaning that the nucleus has an increasing positive charge.This means that the electrons are puller closer to the nucleus, decreasing the atomic radius.The electrons added across a period are added to the outer energy level so do not provide any shielding effect which would otherwise increase the atomic radius.

TD

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the differences between covalent and ionic bonding?


Explain the geometry and bond angles in a NH3 molecule


What is bond polarity and why does it exist?


What is the difference between intermolecular and intramolecular bonds.